India loses both openers

INDIA has lost both openers as it attempts to chase down a massive 500-run total for victory against Australia in the fourth Test in Adelaide.

SCOREBOARD

INDIA 2/94 & 272

AUSTRALIA 5/167 & 604

Dravid 25no

Tendulkar 9no

India trail by 405 runs.

Australian captain Michael Clarke declared his side's second innings at 5/167 early in the day's second session, leaving the visitor's with an almost impossible run-chase.

And the task became even harder when Gautam Gambhir (3) was quickly removed, snared, once again, in the slips.

Virender Sehwag (62) and Rahul Dravid (25no) gave the Indian fans some hope, combining for a 66-run partnership, but Nathan Lyon had the last word, claiming Sehwag's wicket.

Sachin Tendulkar (9no) and Dravid saw the tourists to the tea break, but both experienced batsmen will know they cannot afford to lose their wickets when play resumes.

India trail by 405 runs.

Whitewash within sight

Australia has moved within touching distance of a 4-0 series whitewash against India.

Australia has already claimed the Border-Gavaskar Trophy after winning the first three Tests, but after scoring 104 runs for the loss of two wickets in today's morning session, the home side is on the verge of a series clean sweep.

Australian captain Michael Clarke (37) and Ricky Ponting (57no) began the days play, setting up a 71-run partnership and evoking fear in the tourists of another record breaking partnership.

But the Indians finally broke through when Umesh Yadav (1/23) claimed the wicket of Clarke.

And the visitors' joy continued when Michael Hussey was sent back to the pavilion after scoring only 15 runs.

But Ponting continued to score runs and brought up his half-century just before the lunch break.

Ponting and Brad Haddin (1no) will continue to build Australia's lead of 486 runs when play resumes.